New Physiological Importance of Two Classic Residual Products: Carbon Monoxide and Bilirubin

Heme oxygenase the rate-limiting step in the degradation of heme to bilirubin, generates carbon monoxide. This gaseous molecule plays important roles in neuronal signaling and modulation of vascular tone. Additionally, carbon monoxide is involved in some pathological conditions (e.g., ischemia, endo...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Biochemical and molecular medicine 1997-08, Vol.61 (2), p.136-142
Main Author: Marilena, Gilca
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animals
Antioxidants - metabolism
Bilirubin - physiology
Carbon Monoxide - metabolism
Heme - metabolism
Heme Oxygenase (Decyclizing) - metabolism
Homeostasis - physiology
Humans
Second Messenger Systems - physiology
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Summary:Heme oxygenase the rate-limiting step in the degradation of heme to bilirubin, generates carbon monoxide. This gaseous molecule plays important roles in neuronal signaling and modulation of vascular tone. Additionally, carbon monoxide is involved in some pathological conditions (e.g., ischemia, endotoxic shock, excitotoxicity) as a protective or toxic factor. Bilirubin, another heme metabolite, exhibits intriguing biological activities as an antioxidant, an antimutagen, and an anti-complement agent. Vital functions and the dual nature displayed by these two heme metabolites are discussed.
ISSN:1077-3150
1095-5577
DOI:10.1006/bmme.1997.2610